Dairy foods or fractions for appetite and weight control

Abstract

There are a number of components which may assist in maintaining appropriate energy balance. We have reviewed the evidence and conducted a number of clinical studies to provide further insight into the role of dairy foods and fractions in reducing energy intake. Collectively, our studies have shown that high protein diets, foods and ingredients have a useful effect on appetite control. This does not appear to differ by source of protein, with dairy, meat, wheat and soy protein all demonstrating similar benefits. We have not observed that high protein, low fat diets for weight management are enhanced by dairy protein or calcium. Commonly available dairy foods, particularly those comprised of protein and lactose, may collectively contribute more to assisting energy balance than any of the individual components. The roles of dairy protein fractions and peptides, as well as dairy fat on appetite regulation and weight management needs substantiation in human studies.